Lucie Chretien

Inspired by my recent placement in the 24-Hour Surgery, I am eager to specialise in acute and emergency nursing to provide compassionate, supportive, and impactful care during critical and vulnerable patient moments. Ultimately, I aim to acquire a comprehensive understanding of clinical cases in acute settings and become a competent, empathetic and self-assured Registered Nurse in Ōtautahi, New Zealand. I recognise that nursing provides a privileged insight into people's lives and cultures, and I approach every patient with a respectful and inclusive attitude.

• 07/24, 09/24, Pegasus Health, 24-Hour Surgery (9 weeks), This acute placement has provided me with a range of experiences across various age groups, including paediatric patients, adults and older people. I have developed rapid assessment and time management skills, as well as clinical prioritisation for care interventions. I have learned how to apply splints, assisted with casting, obtained my venepuncture certification, and completed electrocardiograms, vaccinations, diagnostic swabs and intravenous infusions regularly. Working closely alongside doctors, I have become proficient in escalating care when necessary, identifying red flags or signs of deterioration, and providing extensive patient education.
• 02/24, 03/24, Access Community Health (8 weeks), At Access District Nursing, I gained extensive experience in at-home and community settings. I conducted numerous wound care assessments and dressings on a variety of differing wounds and assisted with catheterisation, drain cares, medication administration and the management of diabetes, heart failure and other chronic conditions. As Access is a nurse-led service, we liaised with general practitioners and St John services regarding patient concerns and escalated care where required. I learned how to maintain a sterile environment in suboptimal conditions and worked alongside the palliative care team to provide comfort and support for both patients and whānau undergoing palliative care in the community.
• 08/23, 09/23, Christchurch Hospital - Ward B5 Oncology and Gastroenterology (5 weeks), Throughout this medical placement, I actively participated in patient care for those under oncology and gastroenterology. I gained hands-on experience in medication administration, including nasogastric and intravenous administration, patient assessment, and observations prior and post chemotherapy as well as symptom management. I assisted in preparing patients for diagnostic tests such as endoscopies and provided emotional and psychological support for patients and whānau during challenging times. I completed my certification for handling antineoplastic drugs and implemented isolation precautions for immunocompromised patients.
• 05/23, 06/23, Hillmorton Hospital - Whaikaha Forensic ID Unit (6 weeks), Throughout this placement, I participated in the care and management of mental health conditions for those with mild to severe intellectual disabilities and a forensic history. I learned a variety of communication skills and de-escalation techniques for emotional and behavioural dysregulation. I also gained knowledge of the legal and ethical frameworks governing this group and consistently worked towards minimising risk for myself and clients.
• 10/22, 11/22, Cashmere View Care Home (3 weeks), Throughout this rest home placement, I enhanced my caregiving skills while upholding resident dignity and privacy when assisting with tasks such as showering, toileting and grooming. I built rapport with the residents and supported the nurses with pressure injury care and prevention, medication administration, and wound care.